Stornoway Signs Partnership Accord With Chibougamau and Chapais

RAPAPORT... Stornoway Diamond Corporation signed a partnership declaration with the communities of Chibougamau and Chapais, located in the vicinity of its Renard diamond project in the James Bay Region of Quebec. This cooperation agreement is based upon the principles of environmental protection, social responsibility and economic efficiency.

Matt Manson, Stornoway's president, said, ''The declaration of partnership with Chibougamau and Chapais is a further example of the framework of trust, transparency and cooperation with which we seek to develop Quebec's first diamond mine. It follows the execution of the Mecheshoo agreement with the Crees of the James Bay Region in March, which was established on similar principles. For Stornoway, the declaration is an expression of the importance we place on Chibougamau and Chapais as commercial centers, and future civic partners, for the successful development of Renard.''

Manon Cyr, the mayor of Chibougamau, added, ''This accord confirms the common bond of cooperation and respect between our two cities and Stornoway in the development of the Renard Project, which has been in existence for several years now. Today's signing marks the beginning of a new phase, allowing us to plan for the future by strengthening the collaboration between the City of Chibougamau and Stornoway.''

Steve Gamache, the mayor of Chapais, said, ''The declaration of partnership is part of a new era of economic and social development based on respect, mutual trust and a shared understanding of the issues of each partner. The town of Chapais is extremely proud to work with Stornoway Diamond Corporation on the development of this leading diamond mining project.''